What is Vibrio vulnificus? Deadly flesh-eating bacteria infections surge in South
A flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters has led to the deaths of five Louisiana residents this year amid a summer time surge.Louisiana health officials are urging beachgoers to take precautions against Vibrio vulnificus, the deadliest species of Vibrio bacteria, which can cause severe and life-threatening infections resulting in gastrointestinal illness, wound infections or blood poisoning.
About one in five people with Vibrio vulnificus infection dies, sometimes within a day or two of becoming ill.The bacteria is found in coastal waters and is present in higher numbers from May through October, when water temperatures are warmer, according to the CDC.
According to a press release from Louisiana Department of Health, nine cases have been reported so far in 2026, all of which required hospitalization.During the same period over the previous 10 years, Louisiana reported an average of seven cases and one death.Here’s everything you need to know about the Vibrio vulnificus as the surge continues.Vibrio vulnificus is most often contracted by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters, the CDC reports.
Infection can also occur when an open wound such as an unhealed cut or scrape, recent piercing or tattoo, comes in contact with coastal waters.These include salt water and brackish water, a mixture of salt and fresh water.
The bacteria is often found where rivers meet the ocean.Florida historically reports the most Vibrio vulnificus cases in the US, with hurricanes and other sever weather increasing exposure risk from floodwaters and standing water.Florida has reported 14 cases and 2 deaths this year, compared with 33 cases and five deaths last year.
In 2025, Basil Kennedy, 77, fell ill after he scraped his leg on a boat trailer.He cleaned and bandaged the wound and never entered the water, but was hospitalized when his health suddenly and sharply declined, Fox 8 Live reported.“His leg started to slowly swell,” his daughter told Fox 8 L...